Shakespeare's Inventions: Words and Phrases That Changed English Forever

William Shakespeare, one of the most renowned authors in the English language, is credited with coining a vast array of words and phrases that have since become integral to our lexicon. While much of this attribution is based on posthumous analysis, it is impossible to deny the profound impact his works have had on the English language. Let’s explore some of the most famous words and phrases that Shakespeare is said to have invented.

The 422 Words That Shakespeare Invented

According to The LitCharts Blog, there are currently 422 unique words and phrases that we now believe first appear in Shakespeare's works. While it is debated whether these words were truly his inventions or if they existed in spoken language before being recorded, there is no denying the rich tapestry of language he contributed. To delve deeper into this fascinating topic, you can refer to The LitCharts Blog.

Phrases Coined by Shakespeare

Phrases that Shakespeare is known for creating or popularizing are especially noteworthy. Here are some of the most popular and influential:

Love is blind - From The Merchant of Venice Star-crossed lovers - From Romeo and Juliet Laughing stock - From The Merry Wives of Windsor

While some words like 'excitement' and 'cold-blooded' are commonly believed to have been coined by Shakespeare, there is a significant amount of controversy surrounding his authorship. Many scholars argue that these words were already in use before he wrote them down. Nonetheless, his works—and the words within—have had a lasting impact on our language.

How Shakespeare Invented Words

To understand how Shakespeare managed to add so many words to the English language, we must consider the nature of the English language during his time. The language was in a state of flux, and there were many neologisms and linguistic innovations occurring. With a deep understanding of language, Shakespeare was able to craft vivid and memorable phrases that captured the essence of human experience and emotion.

One of the most famous examples is the phrase 'star-crossed lovers,' which encapsulates the tragic and fate-bound nature of love in Romeo and Juliet. By using the celestial image of stars, Shakespeare imbued the phrase with a sense of destiny and cosmic inevitability. Similary, the phrase 'love is blind' is both poetic and profound, suggesting the impulsive and irrational nature of romantic love.

Conclusion

Shakespeare’s contribution to the English language is immense, and his works continue to influence not only the language but also our cultural understanding. Whether or not he truly coined all of these words, his ability to create language that resonates deeply with audiences has secured his place as a literary giant. So, let us give good Will a resounding cheer for his remarkable contributions.

To explore more of Shakespeare’s linguistic inventions, visit The LitCharts Blog. This resource provides a comprehensive list of the many words and phrases you’ve come to know.